by Charles Hendricks | Dec 29, 2024 | architecture, Bryce Resort, Harrisonburg Architect, project update
It is not hard to find a classic A frame home at Bryce resort. The challenge is often to find one that has enough space for the entire family to gather, provide some private spaces to take a break from family, and have plenty of outdoor space to gather. Our clients have enjoyed this home for years, but as their family expands it has proven to be a little small for everyone to come together. The A-frame, like many at Bryce Resort, sits on piers with no basement beneath. We needed to evaluate multiple options to figure out the best way to expand the existing house to meet the new goals for the property.
We discussed, sketched, and tried out a few options including adding a basement level vs doing an attached addition. The results all led us back to the same conclusion. A deck addition with a sleeping quarters attached (detached from the existing house) would be the most economical solution and would provide the best space. We worked through a deck stair connection, added the outdoor gathering space needed, and efficiently figured out the new sleeping quarters footprint.
Construction, has started and the foundation holes were dug last time we visited the site. The small bungalow space will be the right solution for this family to continue to gather and make memories at this property. We are looking forward to the builders, Over the Mountain Builders, to start putting the parts and pieces together.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 28, 2024 | architecture, Building Science, green term defined, Harrisonburg Architect
It is that time again when we reflect on the past year, reflect on all the awesome clients we have served, and look forward to the coming year with anticipation. This year was rough to start with, but is ending on solid ground. We lost some team members and added some new ones. We had the fortune of a record number of new projects in a year and that is saying something as we complete our 37th year in business. So as we start to reflect we look at what you were interested in learning more about. Here are the top 10 Blog posts of 2024.
10. Everyone wanted to know when the new Oriental Express would open – here is one of the construction updates that got a lot of attention.
9. There are questions and we have resources to help – thinking about building a custom home always gets a lot of attention. This resource will answer a lot of your questions before you ever hire an architect or builder.
8. It look like a lot of people were thinking about front porches this year – I think that is a good sign that we all want to build stronger communities.
Photo by Asha Beck
7. Learning more about aging in place is always a popular topic – thinking about plywood in your bathroom is one solution.
Photo by Asha Beck
6. Getting put on a national list of the top 100 architects was fairly cool – thanks for celebrating with us.
5. Adding a daycare in the heart of downtown Harrisonburg was a bright spot in the year for everyone!
4. Did you see the Northern Lights this year – seeing them at our clients house was so cool.
3. Our Dementia Friendly design guide continues to be an incredible resource for everyone that downloads it – based on the number of clicks it gets of course.
2. Our assorted coloring books are always a crowd pleaser and we love adding to the collection.
And the top blog post of 2024 is….
- If you want to be a better architect, you should read these 15 books
Thank you everyone for clicking on our website, reading our blog, and supporting our business. Each time you click on a page you are helping us find our next project. If there are topics we can share that you care about, let us know. We would love to have even more clicks in 2025.
by Charles Hendricks | Dec 27, 2024 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, citizen architect, community, Empathy, Leadership, Local Leaders, Office Culture, Rotary, team
As we start a new year it is hard to resist the temptation to think about the difference we have made in this world. We are provided with many opportunities as architects to solve design challenges for our clients and friends. We get to find solutions that reduce impacts on our environment and improves resiliency for the future. It is an awesome profession if you are passionate about our world and all the living creatures on it. However, our work doesn’t have to stop at the built environment. We are part of a larger community and are able to use our social power and time for good. On January 1st we celebrate world day of Peace. At times it feels like we have almost no ability to make a large change and Peace is one of the largest.
The Rotary Club of Rockingham County took on the challenge to register existing Peace Poles in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County and to plant new ones. Rotary Clubs from across the valley are joining this effort let by our district Governor Bret Hrbek. We are seeing Peace Poles pop up across the valley with the words “May Peace Prevail on Earth.” The Rotary Peace Pole Project is a global initiative by Rotary International to promote peace and understanding among people of all cultures and backgrounds.
What is a Peace Pole?
A Peace Pole is a simple yet powerful symbol of peace. It is typically a pole with the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” inscribed on it, often in multiple languages. These poles are installed in public spaces like parks, schools, and community centers.
The primary goal of the Rotary Peace Pole Project is to:
- Inspire Peace: To inspire individuals to think about peace and its importance.
- Promote Tolerance: To foster tolerance and understanding among different cultures and beliefs.
- Encourage Action: To encourage people to take action to promote peace in their communities and the world.
By planting Peace Poles, Rotary clubs and individuals contribute to a global network of peace and hope. These simple monuments serve as reminders of our shared humanity and the importance of working together for a peaceful future. Peace Poles are located in nearly every country around the world, including notable locations such as:
- The North Magnetic Pole
- The Hiroshima Peace Memorial
- The Egyptian Pyramids in Giza
- The Aiki Shrine in Iwama, Japan
Plant a Peace Pole
If you want to be involved in supporting additional Peace Poles in Harrisonburg or Rockingham County reach out to us and we can get you connected. If you want to plant a Peace Pole somewhere else in the world reach out and I will do my best to find the right connection for you. The more of us coming together promoting Peace the better world we will leave for our children. This may be the most important project I have taken on over my career and certainly the most important over the last year.
by Charles Hendricks | Nov 30, 2024 | architecture, community
Today is Small Business Saturday and we focus, once again, on buying local. We do this to support our neighbors, community, and local economy. Buying from a locally-owned business contributes to the overall health of our community. Locally handcrafted products provide unique gifts and support local creatives. Buying local reduces the carbon footprint associated with transport and packaging. It creates local jobs, preserves local traditions, and reinforces cultural heritage. Local businesses are the backbone of our schools, non-profits, roads, public safety systems, parks, and more.
So today, as you are thinking about what to get your favorite architect, think about these favorite local small business shops owned by our neighbors and friends.
By making a conscious effort to buy from locally-owned small businesses, you can help create a more sustainable, equitable, and thriving community.
by Charles Hendricks | Nov 29, 2024 | architecture, Building Science, Commercial Architect, Indoor Air Quality
The 2021 Virginia building code changes have had a significant impact on residential homes in Virginia starting in January 2025. These changes, aimed at improving energy efficiency and safety, have led to increased construction costs. One of the most notable changes is the stricter energy efficiency standards. Homes built after 2021 are required to meet higher insulation standards, use more efficient HVAC systems, and have tighter air sealing. While these changes will lead to lower energy bills in the long run, they increase upfront construction costs. They also increase the building science complexity on your home. If you don’t understand the impacts of these changes you could create a mold or rot issue in your new home. You also need to pay special attention to the indoor air quality of this new tighter house.
Additionally, the 2021 code also introduced stricter requirements for fire safety, accessibility, and plumbing systems. These changes, while necessary for safety and accessibility, also contribute to increased construction costs. The exact cost increase varies depending on the specific project and location, but it is estimated that the 2021 code changes can add anywhere from 2% to 10% to the overall cost of a new home. These increased costs will have a dramatic impact on already rising construction costs. Knowing the changes and how to mitigate the impact of them on the final budget will be critical moving forward.
For homeowners considering building new or renovating, it’s important to be aware of these code changes. While they may increase the initial cost, they can also lead to long-term savings and a more sustainable home. Consulting with an architect can help you understand the specific costs / benefits associated with the 2021 code changes and how they may impact your project.
Photo by Asha Beck
Photo by Asha Beck
